Brazil Bags Title in Kosice Tournament

Brazil is slowly reaching their peak before the 2010 FIBA World Basketball Championship when the dismantled the host Slovakia, 60-54, to bag the title in the Grand Prix of the Slovak Republic in Kosice.

Karen Gustavo erupted for 18 points while Palmira Marcal contributed 12 points for Brazil, which dropped their tournament-opener against Serbia, 82-78.

The Brazilians started out flat and the hosts took advantage and built a seven-point cushion at the half, 32-25, but the resilient Brazil bounced back and outscored Slovakia, 25-12, in the final quarter.

"They started the game well. We were more studied but scored well. We kept ourselves in the game and then found the difference to go ahead." said veteran center Alessandra Oliveira.

"It is nice to win this competition and it is important in giving us confidence. Now let's think about the South American Championship." Alessandra added.

Lucia Kupcikova led Slovakia in scoring with her nine points, while Klaudia Lukacovicova added seven points for the host team.

Brazil will be one of the teams to watch in the upcoming World Basketball Championship for Women in Czech Republic and they will go up against Korea, Mali, and Spain in the preliminary rounds.